What Is The Difference Between Grace and Mercy?

One of the most prominent stories in the bible is that of King David. Despite being a great ruler, he was a fornicator and an adulterer. But he is not alone. Plenty of other bible characters have done something terrible at some point in their lives. Saul was a disbeliever, Moses was a doubter, and Jacob was a liar.

Despite this, God made them his witness and used them to accomplish His purpose. Not only did He forgive them, but He also endowed them with unmerited favor.

Like these bible characters, we are all recipients of God’s mercy and grace as well. Despite having sinned over and over again, He has shown us kindness and compassion. He even sent his only son so all of us can be saved – an act of grace that we do not deserve.

In Christian theology, grace is often classified into two types: common and saving grace. The former is universal. It’s God’s grace to all of humanity regardless of their faith in Him. Examples of common grace are the beauty of creation, the life we enjoy, and the resources we are provided.

A saving grace, meanwhile, is that which provides salvation to a person. This type of grace is manifested in Jesus Christ himself, whom He sent to save us all.